Saint Xavier University’s Learning Center and Disability Services (LCDS) was recently presented with an Outstanding Post-Secondary Program Award during the 9th Annual Illinois Statewide Transition Conference held on Oct. 24-25, 2013 in Effingham, Illinois. This award is given to a college or vocational program that has done an outstanding job of education and services to help students with all disabilities achieve their higher education. The SXU staff in the office of the LCDS includes Margaret McDonnell, director; Katie Szymczak, assistant director; and Donna Rook, coordinator. A plaque to commemorate the award will be visible on campus soon.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from our peers,” said Margaret McDonnell, director of the Learning Center and Disability Services. “However, our biggest reward is continuing to see SXU students with disabilities thrive in the classroom and meet the many challenges they face on a daily basis. Through our continued efforts, we empower students to be successful in all aspects of their college experience.”

The theme of the Conference was “Stepping Stones to Transition,” which encourages participants to “imagine the possibilities for students with disabilities in the areas of independent living, education and training, employment, community integration, health care, and self-advocacy.”